Abstract

Background

Many postnatal women are insufficiently physically active in the year after childbirth
and could benefit from interventions to increase activity levels. However, there is
limited information about the efficacy, feasibility and acceptability of motivational
and behavioral interventions promoting postnatal physical activity in the UK.

Methods

The MAMMiS study is a randomized, controlled trial, conducted within a large National
Health Service (NHS) region in Scotland. Up to 76 postnatal women will be recruited
to test the impact of two physical activity consultations and a 10-week group pram-walking
program on physical activity behavior change. The intervention uses evidence-based
motivational and behavioral techniques and will be systematically evaluated using
objective measures (accelerometers) at three months, with a maintenance measure taken
at a six-month follow-up. Secondary health and well-being measures and psychological
mediators of physical activity change are included.

Discussion

The (MAMMiS study will provide a test of a theoretical and evidence-based physical
activity behavior change intervention for postnatal women and provide information
to inform future intervention development and testing within this population.